LA FERIA — The Lionettes clinched the District 32-4A crown with a decisive 7-0 victory over the Lyford Lady Bulldogs Friday night at Lions stadium.
The Lionettes were led by junior forward Annette Ruiz, who had a hat trick on the night scoring three goals, bringing her season total to 14.
“Tonight’s win was a team effort by different girls scoring from different positions,” said La Feria head coach Norma Tamez. “We took advantage of our corner kicks and on a one-on-one break I know Amairani (Martinez) or Annette can take the shot with their breakaway speed.
“(Winning district) feels great and it’s a great accomplishment for the team.”
Martinez, the team’s leading scorer, also had a solid display scoring a brace on the night, the goals bringing the senior’s season total to 29 on the year.
“She played really good besides the fact she was carrying a little cold,” said Tamez. “She has the ability to sprint, control the ball and cut back whenever she needs to.
“What helps her out is that she has beautiful crosses from the outside that helps us take advantage of one-on-one situations against defenders.”
Martinez got the scoring started when she got behind a ball and poked it in from close range with 25 minutes left in the first half. Five minutes later Adrianna De La Cruz doubled the score with a low shot that beat Lyford’s keeper.
Martinez made it 3-0 when she took advantage of a loose ball inside the box and shot it into an open goal.
The Lionettes scored a total of six goals in the first half, while Ruiz added her third goal in the final minute of the game.
La Feria improved its record to 9-0 and secured a third consecutive district title.
The Lionettes close out the regular season against Brownsville IDEA next Friday at the Brownsville Sports Complex at 6 p.m.
With the district title in the bag, the Lionettes will be chasing their first undefeated season in seven years.